This honey garlic chicken is a tasty treat! It’s coated in a sweet and sticky sauce, making every bite finger-licking good. Add some roasted sweet potatoes on the side, and you’ve got a meal that pleases everyone!
I love how easy it is to whip this up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! The sweet potatoes complement the chicken perfectly. Plus, they just might convince the kids to eat their veggies. Win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for this dish. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster.
Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash are good substitutes, though they may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Honey: Honey provides the signature sweetness in this dish. For a healthier alternative, you could use maple syrup or agave syrup. However, these may alter the flavor a bit.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory element. For a gluten-free option, choose tamari or coconut aminos. Both give a similar flavor without gluten.
Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme enhances the flavor beautifully, but if it’s not available, dried thyme works well, too. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use less.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky. To ensure juicy and tender thighs, follow these key points:
- **Searing:** Start by searing the chicken skin-side down for a crispy texture. This also locks in moisture. Aim for about 4-5 minutes until golden.
- **Oven Cooking:** After searing, roasting in the oven ensures thorough cooking without drying out. Keep an eye on the internal temperature—165°F (75°C) is the magic number.
- **Resting:** After roasting, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for moist meat.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked honey garlic chicken that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken And Sweet Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and approximately 30-35 minutes of cooking time. So, expect a total of around 50 minutes from start to enjoying your meal. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken and sweet potatoes.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. Set this delicious sauce aside for later.
3. Season the Chicken:
Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken thighs. This will enhance their flavor while they cook.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear them until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. After that, flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the sweet potato cubes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme (dried or fresh). Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to get a slight browning.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them among the sweet potatoes, skin-side up. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and sweet potatoes, ensuring everything is well-coated.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the sweet potatoes are tender.
8. Let it Rest:
Once done, carefully take the skillet out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This time helps the juices settle in the chicken, keeping it juicy.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Honey Garlic Chicken and Sweet Potato!
Delicious home-cooked comfort food made easy! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful that they may dry out more easily, so check for doneness after about 20-25 minutes in the oven, and try to avoid overcooking them.
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce and chop the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just follow the same steps, adding a few extra minutes if the ingredients are cold from the fridge.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving it with rice or quinoa to soak up the extra sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture when reheating!
